Monthly Archives: July 2009

I’ve wanted to post so often over the past year. But it turns out that writing a book while teaching full time is no small thing, and every time I thought about a post, I would guiltily think about all the things I could be doing to further my career: getting to bed early, writing, cleaning my office, grading, grading, grading…

So I put off announcing my time away, again and again, like I’ve put off so much in my life. No more.

My dissertation has finally been submitted, I’m returning to Boston for my defense on Tuesday, and I’m finally ready to start post again.

I hope to have more fun, and frankly, more alcohol. Even a glass of wine interferes with my sleep, and since I’m one of those irritating people who’s most productive in the mornings, I couldn’t risk insomnia that would cause me to miss my 6 am alarm. So I became a teetotaler. No more. In fact, my summer goal is to turn into a complete souse, at least until September.

I’ve never been a fan of most mixed drinks: too sweet, too many additives, icky-tasting alcohol. But this lovely, refreshing gin-and-cucumber concoction is different from the usual. Tart, minty, and not too sweet, with crunchy bits of cucumber and a pinch of salt, it’s just the thing for long summer nights when one is finally, finally free.

Gordon’s Cup

Adapted from Orangette. I took Molly’s base recipe and added a sprig of mint and some soda water, which improves any drink, as far as I’m concerned.

About

Tisha is a Minneapolis-based amateur cook and photographer. She cooks food from all over the world and brings her culinary reflections and recipes to her readers.
Contact her at riceandspicecupboardATgmailDOTcom